If the fate of Barracks Row's now-defunct restaurants (Marty's, Firehouse Cafe, Ellington's on 8th) is any indication of what happens when new, shiny places invade (The Chesapeake Room, Cava, Zest Bistro) then the shops on Mt. Pleasant Street NW should be nervous. As the neighborhood's main street welcomes tonier retailers, Flying Fish Coffee and Teaand Nana clothing boutique, to name a couple, what will become of the neighborhood pupuserias?

Ercilia's, the corner Salvadoran spot (a favorite of several City Paper staffers), for one, is taking measures to be noticed. What was once a pale cream facade has suddenly been repainted an eye-catching burnt orange.

When asked if Ecrilia's new paint job is due to the changing streetscape, Sonia Castellon, the owner's daughter, says, "I know nothing about that."

Castellon has a simpler explanation for the eatery's glaring new look: "Because the paint was coming off," she says.

Do you think Mt. Pleasant's continuing retail renascence will force more old-school restaurants to upgrade their look and menu?

Here's hoping! A few other Mt P businesses have freshened up their look: TexMex Burrito, the salon next to the pharmacy, the Raven and Mt P cleaners. If only Bestway would clean up it's store, I think that would be an excellent anchor for further improvements.